Free wi-fi access at local hospitals

Charlie Grimshaw and Dianne Cook try out the wi-fi access

The Pennine Acute Trust has launched a free wi-fi service.

After being tested in the emergency department at North Manchester General Hospital, the service is now ready to be rolled out Trust wide from the beginning of August.

Eight-year-old Charlie Grimshaw from Middleton took advantage of the new service when he was treated in A&E at North Manchester for an injury to his ankle.

His mum, Nicola, said: “I think the free wi-fi in A&E is a good idea as it helps parents be able to get in touch with any other relatives they may need to contact whilst in hospital. Also it’s great for kids in A&E as it helps pass the time and take their mind off their illness or injury. Whilst we were waiting to be seen and go for x-rays, Charlie played on the iPad.”

Charlie said: “I enjoyed playing games on the iPad while I was waiting."

Dianne Cook, lead advanced paediatric nurse practitioner, said: “We were very keen to develop the free wi-fi access following feedback from children and young people who have visited our A&E department. The children wanted to have free wi-fi access when they attend hospital, and this view has been echoed by adults who often ask staff if they can have access.”

Ray Ashton, IT communications manager, said: “The Wi-Fi system is easy to access and totally free for users at North Manchester General Hospital, The Royal Oldham Hospital, Rochdale Infirmary and Fairfield General Hospital in Bury.”

Connecting to the free wi-fi network is a very simple process and will be clearly described on posters throughout the Trust. There is also a helpdesk number to ring if patients or visitors encounter any problems.